Vietnam rides for the moon bears

25 April 2014

Over 50 animal welfare supporters cycled 132km in tropical conditions to raise awareness and show support for the campaign to end bear bile farming.

In addition to the riders, a further 100 supporters travelled by bus to cheer on the cyclists during their round trip from Vietnam’s capital Hanoi to Animals Asia’s bear sanctuary in the outskirts of Tam Dao national park.

Supporters young and old from all walks of life took part in the annual event. The youngest cyclist was just six years old and received the biggest cheer of the day from the waiting crowd at the sanctuary gates after cycling the last kilometre.

Animals Asia’s Vietnam Director Tuan Bendixsen said:

“Animals Asia is delighted at the support shown by such a large group of riders and supporters. Grass roots community support like this is vital to Vietnam’s growing awareness of animal welfare and can be a driving force behind Vietnam’s efforts to end bear bile farming and protect its endangered moon bear population for the next generation.”